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How a cassette tape fueled Sergio Vallín’s ascension to rock royalty

How a cassette tape fueled Sergio Vallín’s ascension to rock royalty

Sergio Vallín of Maná is the latest icon to join Gibson TV en Español for an episode of “Mi Historia”

Sergio Vallín, the lead guitarist of the legendary Mexican rock band Maná, is the latest icon to join Gibson TV en Español for a revealing episode of “Mi Historia.” In this candid conversation, Vallín delves into the formation of his distinctive guitar style and the improbable story of how a simple cassette tape proved fundamental in securing his position in the most important Latin rock band of all time.

Maná’s trajectory from Guadalajara to global stardom is defined by its massive, stadium-filling sound, where Vallín’s versatile lead guitar work is indispensable. Vallín recounts the early days, explaining how his audition process hinged on a recording he once passed to Luis Miguel’s guitarist, Kiko Cibrián. He mentions that the cassette served as his entry ticket, needing to showcase not just his technique but thesoul he could put into those few minutes of tape. This story underscores the unexpected twists of fate that often forge music history.

Vallín recalls the surreal moment the offer materialized: “One day we were rehearsing at my parent’s house, and my mom gets in the room and says, ‘Fher Olvera from Maná is on the phone and he’s looking for you.’” The frontman of an already massive band was looking for a young guitarist from Aguascalientes, who spent his weekends playing with a band he formed with his siblings.

Vallín’s sound is characterized by soaring, melodic solos and driving rhythm, often delivered through his Gibson Custom Sergio Vallin 1955 Les Paul™ signature model. In the episode, he highlights that his ability to play diverse genres and explore different sounds was a key factor in his selection—a necessary versatility for a band as globally relevant as Maná.

From an aspiring guitarist recording bedroom demos to becoming an architect of Latin rock, Vallín’s career is an inspiration to countless musicians. The episode gives viewers an intimate look at the dedication required to maintain a global career spanning over three decades and his constant push for creative evolution.

Gibson TV en Español is now streaming on YouTube, bringing high-quality content to Spanish-speaking audiences worldwide. Follow @gibsontvenespanol and be sure to subscribe for the latest updates.

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